Applying a deck finish with Ipe Oil™ is fast, easy, and very rewarding.

Every day I field calls from new proud owners of Ipe decks; or other decks built with exotic hardwood decking materials. They are always filled with excitement and ready to unveil it at there next barbecue. However the last step to finishing off your newly built masterpiece is applying a hardwood deck finish. An oil based hardwood deck finish not only protects your investment; but also gives it that beautiful finished look.

We recommend Ipe Oil™ which was specially formulated for Exotic Hardwoods. Some people think that your average decking oil will penetrate these extremely dense materials; but think again. It takes a very special formula to penetrate these hardwood materials; that not every brand is designed to do.

We recommend 6 steps in applying the Ipe Oil™ hardwood decking finish to ensure a perfect look:

1. Clean the deck surface thoroughly to make sure it is completely free of debris or foreign residues of any kind. Also make sure that if you have stained or painted your deck in the past that it is completely removed.
2. Stir well initially and during use. Intermix all containers of the same color to ensure uniform appearance.
3. Apply a small amount to test area to ensure complete penetration and color satisfaction before proceeding with the entire project.
4. Recommended Method: Roll on decking with a 3/8” nap paint roller. Alternative Method: Apply with quality bristle brush, or airless sprayer. Back brush or back roll if applied by spray.
5. Apply a uniform even coat. Stain the full length of the boards, keeping a wet edge. One coat is sufficient for most applications. On decks wipe up any excess product that is not absorbed within 5 minutes to prevent tackiness and surface sheen.
6. Finally clean application equipment with mineral spirits (paint thinner).

Once you have completed the following steps we recommend that you allow the deck to dry for 24 to 48 hours depending on your climate. This method should be followed for the first 2 years, and then from there you can skip every other year depending on UV exposure and weather.

Now you are ready to send out the BBQ invites and dazzle everyone with your beautiful new deck!

Learn more about Ipe Oil™.

Here’s a handy presentation on how easy it is to apply Ipe Oi™ Deck Finish to your exotic hardwood deck. Contact Ipe Clip® today to get this deck oil finish product on your shelves today.

Wood rot is a common problem with hardwood decks that have been installed with screws that have been vertically installed right into the decking. If you’ve been reading this blog, you will have noticed a trend; The face-screwing method leads to many common and persistent deck problems.

One major problem that occurs frequently is wood rot. People falsely assume that just because a nail or screw fit into a hole, that nothing could also enter that hole. Unfortunately, water is an element that damages wood and is a major reason why mold and mildew are also common problems for wood and composite decks.

When it rains on your deck, water tends to accumulate around and seep into screw and nail holes. As the water literally sits in the hole, microorganisms work their magic and rot starts to occur. As you can see from the above picture, wood rot can be quite unattractive. Rotting deck boards also become a hazard because they weaken the overall strength of the decking.

How can you prevent wood rot?

Be sure to add Deck Fasteners to the list of “Must-have Decking Supplies.” The Ipe Clip Company has a variety of hidden deck fasteners specially designed to ensure your deck remains sturdy, durable and healthy enough to last for decades.

If you already have a deck, the simplest thing you can do is perform the recommended amount of maintenance prescribed by your decking supplier. Also, using a hardwood finish and deck oil like Ipe Oil™ will help protect each deck board from wood rot.